Choosing the right outdoor rocking chair goes beyond style—it’s about selecting a material that fits your climate, maintenance preferences, and long-term comfort needs. At OutdoorRockingChair.com, customers can choose from beautifully handcrafted wood rocking chairs and ultra-durable recycled plastic (poly) rocking chairs, all proudly American-made.
This guide breaks down the differences between wood and poly materials so you can confidently choose the best outdoor rocking chair for your space.
Wood vs Poly: Why Material Matters
When choosing an outdoor rocking chair, material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The right material affects comfort, longevity, maintenance, and how well the chair performs in your climate. At OutdoorRockingChair.com, the most popular options fall into two main categories: natural wood (such as Amish hickory, cedar, and cypress) and recycled plastic (poly).
Wood rockers offer timeless beauty and traditional craftsmanship, while poly rockers deliver modern durability with virtually no maintenance. Understanding these differences will help you invest in seating that lasts for years.
Now let’s dive into the best types of rocking chairs available on our website.
1. Amish Hickory Rocking Chairs
For those who value traditional craftsmanship, Amish-made hickory rocking chairs are a premium choice. Hickory is one of the strongest hardwoods used in furniture making, offering exceptional stability and longevity.
A perfect example is the Amish Bentwood Hickory Rocking Chair, which showcases hand-shaped curves, natural wood grain, and smooth rocking motion—ideal for covered porches and classic outdoor spaces.
Another excellent option is the A&L Furniture Co. Hickory 9-Slat Rocking Chair, known for its ergonomic slat-back design and rustic appeal, making it a popular choice for everyday porch use.
Best placement: Covered porches, screened patios, and sunrooms.
Why Choose Hickory Rocking Chairs?
- Extremely strong and durable hardwood
- Beautiful natural grain and rustic appeal
- Handcrafted by Amish artisans
- Ideal for covered porches and sunrooms
Best for: Covered porches, traditional homes, and buyers who value craftsmanship over minimal maintenance.
2. Cedar & Cypress Outdoor Rocking Chairs
Cedar and cypress are popular choices for outdoor wooden rocking chairs because of their natural resistance to moisture, insects, and decay. These woods perform well in outdoor environments and are lighter than hickory, making them easier to move and reposition.
Cedar offers a warm tone and aromatic scent, while cypress contains natural oils that help protect it from rot and humidity. Both materials are excellent for customers seeking classic wood furniture that can handle outdoor exposure with proper care.
Why Choose Cedar or Cypress?
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Lighter weight than hardwoods
- Great for humid and coastal climates
- Classic outdoor appearance
Best for: Open porches, covered patios, and customers who prefer natural wood with moderate maintenance.
Featured Picks
- A&L Furniture Co. Timberlux Rustic Hickory 7-Slat Rocking Chair is handcrafted from solid hickory wood, offering rustic charm, strength, and long-lasting outdoor durability.
- LA Cypress Inc. 5ft Cypress Porch Rocker features a smooth natural cypress finish and is perfect for relaxed, country-style outdoor spaces.
👉 You’ll find many of these in the Rockers collection.
3. Recycled Plastic (Poly) Rocking Chairs
Recycled plastic rocking chairs, also known as poly rockers, are designed for maximum durability and minimal maintenance. Made from high-density recycled plastics, these chairs are engineered to withstand harsh outdoor conditions without cracking, fading, or warping.
Poly rocking chairs maintain their color year after year and do not require sealing, staining, or painting. This makes them a top choice for homeowners who want long-lasting outdoor seating with virtually no upkeep.
Why Choose Poly Rocking Chairs?
- Weather-resistant and fade-proof
- No cracking, splintering, or rotting
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
- Easy to clean with soap and water
Best for: Open patios, poolside areas, coastal regions, and homeowners who want maintenance-free outdoor furniture.
Popular Picks
- One of the most popular options is the LuxCraft Classic Traditional Recycled Plastic Rocking Chair, which combines timeless design with exceptional weather resistance.
- For shared seating, the Bryton Park Poly Classic Double Rocking Chair offers comfortable motion for two people while maintaining the same all-weather durability.
Read More About LuxCraft vs Polywood: Which Outdoor Furniture Brand is the Best
Durability & Weather Resistance Comparison
When it comes to durability, poly rocking chairs outperform wood in extreme weather conditions. They handle rain, snow, intense sun, and humidity without damage.
Wood rocking chairs are highly durable as well, especially hickory, cedar, and cypress—but they benefit from protection such as covered placement and periodic maintenance to preserve their appearance and strength.
Quick Comparison:
- Best all-weather durability: Recycled plastic (poly)
- Best natural strength: Amish hickory
- Best moisture resistance (wood): Cedar & cypress
Maintenance Comparison
Maintenance is a major deciding factor for many buyers.
Wood Rocking Chairs:
- May require sealing or staining over time
- Should be protected from prolonged moisture
- Develop a natural patina if left untreated
Poly Rocking Chairs:
- Require no sealing, staining, or painting
- Clean easily with mild soap and water
- Maintain color and structure for decades
If low maintenance is a priority, poly is the clear winner. If natural aging and wood character appeal to you, wood is a great choice.
Best Climate for Each Material
Different materials perform better in specific environments:
- Humid or Coastal Climates: Recycled plastic, cedar, or cypress
- Hot, Sunny Regions: Poly rocking chairs resist fading best
- Mild or Dry Climates: Wood performs beautifully with minimal upkeep
- Four-Season Weather Areas: Poly offers the best year-round durability
Choosing the right material based on climate ensures your rocking chair looks great and lasts longer.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose a wood outdoor rocking chair if you:
- Love traditional craftsmanship
- Prefer natural materials and grain
- Have a covered porch or protected space
Choose a recycled plastic rocking chair if you:
- Want minimal maintenance
- Need maximum weather resistance
- Plan to place seating in open outdoor areas
Both options offer excellent comfort—it simply depends on your lifestyle, climate, and design preference.
FAQs
Are recycled plastic rocking chairs environmentally friendly?
Yes. Poly rocking chairs are made from recycled materials and help reduce plastic waste while offering long-lasting outdoor performance.
Do wooden rocking chairs last outdoors?
High-quality woods like hickory, cedar, and cypress can last many years outdoors when properly maintained and placed in covered areas.
Which rocking chair material is best for coastal areas?
Recycled plastic is the best choice for coastal environments due to its resistance to salt air, moisture, and sun exposure.
Do poly rocking chairs get hot in the sun?
High-quality poly furniture is designed to remain comfortable, though lighter colors stay cooler in direct sunlight.
Is wood or poly better for year-round outdoor use?
Poly rocking chairs are best for year-round exposure, while wood performs best with some protection from the elements.
